Gastown Steam Clock, Vancouver
11th June 2019
The Gastown Steam Clock, originally driven entirely by steam, was installed in 1977 and dedicated to the citizens of Vancouver by the community of Gastown. It was sponsored by contributions from local businesses, property owners, clubs, associations and private donors.
The steam-powered clock is located on the corner of Cambie and Water Street in Gastown, Vancouver. The clock was built to cover a steam grate that was part of Vancouver’s distributed steam-heating system.
'Saying the clock is “steam-powered' is a bit of a misnomer, as the clockworks itself is powered by descending weights. The mini-steam engine at the base of the clock case takes up the role of the human “winder” by raising a series of ball weights and delivering the weights to the clock drive train. But the steam engine is connected by a rubber belt to an electric motor hidden from view - much more reliable than steam power.
The Gastown Steam Clock, originally driven entirely by steam, was installed in 1977 and dedicated to the citizens of Vancouver by the community of Gastown. It was sponsored by contributions from local businesses, property owners, clubs, associations and private donors.
